More than 11,000 women in America are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year. A Pap smear is the screening test for this type of cancer. The test can detect early abnormalities, and if treated, can prevent the development of cervical cancer.
HPV (human papilloma virus) is a common sexually transmitted infection that causes most cases of cervical cancer. It is estimated that over 79 million Americans have HPV, but many are unaware of it. A woman may not know she has been exposed until she is told she has an abnormal Pap smear.
The HPV vaccine can prevent the most common types of HPV that are associated with risk of cervical cancer. This is especially important for teens starting as young as age 11 to get. It is important to understand that the vaccine is not used to prevent STD’s, but rather is indicated for cervical cancer prevention.